Claim: Israel’s iron dome anti-missile defence system is no joke.
Verdict: Verified. Israel’s Iron Dome system is accurate and overstretched to the point where US will send 2 Iron Domes.
On Oct 9, 2022, Libs Fail posted on platform X (ex-Twitter): “BREAKING: Amazing video proves Iron Dome is the BEST missile shield ever”.
The post uses sensationalized language, such as “the GREATEST missile defence system of all time”. This may exaggerate the capabilities of the Iron Dome and create a false impression of its performance. The post does not provide any source or evidence for its claim. This makes it difficult for readers to verify its accuracy or reliability. The post ignores or omit important facts or context, such as the limitations, costs, or controversies of the Iron Dome. It affect its completeness and balance. Posts like this should be fact-checked. By consulting reliable and authoritative sources, such as official statements, reports, or studies from governments, organizations, or experts that are relevant to the topic.
Iron Dome in Israel
The Iron Dome is a missile defence system that intercepts rockets, mortars, and other projectiles launched from Gaza and other hostile areas. It has operated since 2011 and has successfully intercepted thousands of rockets, saving lives and reducing damage. The system is joint project of Israel and USA. It consists of radar, command and control, and interceptor missiles. The Iron Dome can track multiple targets simultaneously and determine which ones pose a threat to populated areas. It then launches interceptors that destroy the incoming projectiles in mid-air.
The Iron Dome has been under heavy pressure since October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel, killing over 1,200 people and taking about 150 hostages. Since then, Hamas has fired more than 5,000 rockets at Israel, while Israel has responded with airstrikes that have killed more than 1,350 Palestinians. The Iron Dome has intercepted about 90% of the rockets that were headed for populated areas, according to Israeli officials. However, some rockets have managed to evade or overwhelm the system, causing casualties and damage on both sides.
The United States has been a key ally and supporter of Israel’s missile defense program, providing financial and technical assistance. In 2023, the US Congress approved $500 million for Israel’s missile defense systems, including the Iron Dome. On October 19, 2023, the US announced that it would send two additional Iron Dome batteries to Israel to help replenish its depleted stockpile of interceptors.
Iron Dome Functionalities
Israel has and is developing other missile defence systems besides the Iron Dome. The David’s Sling system can intercept medium-range missiles and drones, and the Arrow system can counter long-range ballistic missiles. Israel is also working on a laser-based system called the Iron Beam, which could complement the Iron Dome by intercepting short-range rockets and mortars with high-energy beams. The Iron Beam is still in development and has not been deployed yet. However, some reports suggest that Israel may accelerate its deployment in light of the recent escalation of violence.
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